Guinness World Records last night presented Rumeysa Gelgi with the record title of Tallest Teenager (female) in the world.
The 17-year-old, who has a standing height of 213.6 cm (7ft 0.09 in), received the award in a special presentation in her hometown of Safranbolu, Karabük, in Turkey.
Doctor Ömer Hakan Yavaşoğlu carried out the official measurements of Rumeysa, which in accordance with Guinness World Records guidelines was carried out at three different times in the same day.
The measurements were taken in the presence of Official Seyda Subasi-Gemici, who represented Guinness World Records at the ceremony.
Rumeysa said: “It’s one of my biggest dreams to be awarded with this record. Being a record-holder is a very amazing thing. I know that only the special people can make it and I know I’m one of them now.”
Guinness World Records Official Seyda Subasi-Gemici said: “Guinness World Records celebrates diversity and recognises extraordinary people all over the world. Rumeysa Gelgi has shown tremendous courage in the way that she has dealt with her condition, and it is an honour to meet and award her with the record title of Tallest Teenager.”
Rumeysa is currently in the 11th grade at high school and lives at home with her parents and older siblings – who are all ‘normal’ height.
Medical experts believe that Rumeysa’s condition is caused by Weaver’s syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes rapid growth. In addition to her exceptional height, Rumeysa’s hands measure 24.5 cm and feet 30.5 cm.